Photo: Luis Armando Fernandez Intriago
Photo: Nicholas Miles
Photo: M
B&O Railroad Museum
★4.6(3,305 reviews)$Museum
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers are mesmerized by the sheer size of the locomotives and love the hands-on elements, while elementary-aged kids appreciate the history, can read the informative displays, and especially enjoy operating the interactive model train exhibits.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
The B&O Railroad Museum is a train-lover's paradise featuring one of the most impressive collections of historic locomotives and railcars in North America. Kids can explore real trains up close, climb aboard select railcars, watch intricate model train displays, and enjoy seasonal train rides around the historic roundhouse, making it an unforgettable experience for budding engineers and rail enthusiasts.
Highlights
- ✓The massive 1884 roundhouse with 22 tracks radiating from a turntable, housing dozens of historic locomotives
- ✓Climbing aboard authentic passenger cars and cabooses
- ✓Interactive model train layouts where kids can operate trains with push-button controls
- ✓Seasonal train rides around the property for an authentic railroad experience
- ✓The outdoor rail yard with freight cars and equipment kids can explore up close
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at 10:00 AM opening on weekends to beat school groups and have the locomotives mostly to yourself for photo opportunities
- 2.Don't miss the outdoor train rides when available (typically spring through fall) - they book up quickly, so check the schedule and purchase tickets early in your visit
- 3.Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on gravel and uneven surfaces around the outdoor rail yard
- 4.Pack snacks since food options are limited to vending machines, though there's a small picnic area if weather permits
- 5.Check their website for special events like Day Out with Thomas, Polar Express rides, and Halloween trains which require advance tickets
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) for the quietest experience with fewer crowds. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring both indoor and outdoor exhibits, plus seasonal train rides are typically running during these months.
What to Know
Admission is around $20 for adults and $12 for children (check website for current pricing and family packages). Free parking is available on-site. The museum is largely accessible, though some historic railcars have steps that may be challenging for strollers.
Seasonal Notes
Outdoor train rides typically operate April through December (weather permitting). The museum hosts popular seasonal events including Day Out with Thomas (spring/summer), Halloween trains (October), and Polar Express experiences (November-December) that require separate ticket purchases and sell out quickly.
Nearby Eats
Head to Pickles Pub (0.5 miles) near Camden Yards for classic American fare and a casual atmosphere, or visit Lexington Market (1 mile) for diverse food stalls where picky eaters can each choose their own meal from dozens of vendors.
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